Brits urged to check travel plans as New York covered in 'apocalyptic' smog

08 June 2023 , 11:35

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Times Square darkens with dark-brown smoke covering the sky due to wildfires in eastern Canada in Manhattan (Image: AP)

New York is being affected by a "hazardous" orange haze caused by Canada wildfires in Quebec and Nova Scotia, where over 400 blazes burning have left 20,000 people displaced.

The smog has blanketed the US and Canada affecting millions of people as air pollution has reached record levels.

New York smoke from the wildfires has been described as "apocalyptic" and looking "like something from Mars", with authorities urging people to stay inside and wear a mask if they have to go outdoors.

There is also a Code Red air quality alert in place as forecasts show winds are continuing to push the 'hazardous' air south.

Airports such as La Guardia and Newark have experienced flight delays, and in some cases temporarily grounded flights.

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What if I don't want to go to New York anymore?

A hazy New York city skyline during bad air quality because of the smoke of Canadian wildfires brought in by wind (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

It's understandable if you're tempted to put off your trip. Unfortunately, it's unlikely that you'd get a full refund if you choose not to go. (If it's the travel firm which cancels the holiday, then you are entitled to your money back).

If you want to cancel your holiday, check the T&Cs of your booking, as you may need to pay a cancellation fee. This can vary depending on the time there is before you travel, the airline you're flying with, and how much it costs the company to cancel your trip.

Still, it's worth getting in touch with your travel firm - since the pandemic, plenty of companies offer flexible rebooking options, so it may be that you're able to push your trip back to a later date.

Are flights to New York delayed or cancelled?

Heavy smoke fills the air shrouding the view to the northeast to One Vanderbilt and the Chrysler Building (Getty Images)

There are three main New York airports; La Guardia, Newark and JFK. Generally flights from the UK to all three have been operating on time or with minor delays, but this can vary.

For example, earlier this week La Guardia temporarily grounded flights, although services have since resumed.

If you have a flight booked, your best bet is to check direct with your airline if there are any expected disruptions.

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, it's unlikely that you'd be entitled to compensation as airlines can claim 'extraordinary circumstances' - aka that the situation is outside of their control. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, extraordinary circumstances can cover 'weather conditions incompatible with the safe operation of the flight'.

If you booked flights and accommodation separately, it's worth checking your travel insurance details if a flight delay means you can't use part of a booking ie a hotel stay or car hire etc. Check your policy and get in touch with your insurance provider who can advise on what you're covered for.

Julie Delahaye